Metzeler confirms three-year Ulster Grand Prix deal

18 March 2013

The Ulster Grand Prix has secured a three-year deal with tyre manufacturer Metzeler.

Officially the fastest road race in the world after Bruce Anstey lapped the Dundrod circuit near Belfast in Northern Ireland at an average speed of almost 134mph on his way to victory in the second Superbike race in 2010, the event shares top billing on the international roads calendar along with the North West 200 and Isle of Man TT.

The German tyre brand will back the event, which will take place from August 12-17 this year, until 2015.

“For us, this is a natural collaboration that will go beyond the traditional sponsorship model, we want to become a true partner of the event and will work together to raise its profile with bike fans around the world.

“We have a long history of involvement with road racing and we're particularly excited about the Metzeler Ulster Grand Prix where we see a lot of potential for growth,” he added.

“We look forward to a safe and successful Bike Week.”

Former racer James Courtney, President of the organising Dundrod and District Motor Club, said the deal represented a 'serious commitment' to the historic road race.

“We are very happy to announce our partnership with Metzeler, a world renowned organisation that understands and shares the passion that we have for road racing,” he said.

“It's an acknowledgement of the hard work we've put in to raise the overall status and profile of the event.

“Metzeler has made a serious commitment to the Ulster Grand Prix and it marks a new beginning for the event, allowing us to reinforce our efforts to deliver a spectacular show for competitors and spectators alike.”

The Ulster Grand Prix attracts the cream of road racing talent every year.

Last August, Michael Dunlop and Guy Martin shared a win apiece in the Superbike class, while Bruce Anstey and William Dunlop were victorious in the Supersport races.